What medicine to avoid while breastfeeding?

Understanding Medications to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial period for both mother and child, and while many medications are considered safe, there are specific drugs that nursing mothers should avoid to ensure the health and safety of their infants. The transfer of substances through breast milk can affect a baby’s development, making it essential for mothers to be informed about which medications could pose risks.
Medications That Should Be Avoided
1. Codeine and Opioids: Medications containing codeine are particularly concerning. They can be metabolized into morphine, which may lead to dangerously high levels in breastfed infants, potentially causing respiratory depression or sedation. It is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to avoid codeine and other opioids unless absolutely necessary and prescribed by a healthcare provider.
2. Estrogen-containing Birth Control Pills: Hormonal contraceptives that contain estrogen can suppress milk production. While some women may need to use birth control during breastfeeding, it is recommended to opt for progestin-only pills instead, as they are less likely to affect milk supply.
3. Certain Cold and Allergy Medications: Some over-the-counter medications, particularly those containing pseudoephedrine (found in Sudafed), can decrease milk production. While they may be excreted in small amounts into breast milk, their potential impact on lactation makes them less desirable for nursing mothers.
4. Antidepressants: While many antidepressants are considered safe, some, particularly those that are sedating, can affect the infant. Mothers should consult their healthcare providers to find the safest options available.
5. Certain Antibiotics: While many antibiotics are safe during breastfeeding, some, like tetracycline, can affect bone growth and tooth development in infants. It’s crucial for mothers to discuss their specific antibiotic needs with their healthcare provider.
General Guidelines for Medication Use
– Consult Healthcare Providers: Always discuss any medications with a healthcare provider before taking them while breastfeeding. They can provide guidance on safe options and alternatives.

– Monitor for Side Effects: If a mother must take a medication, she should monitor her baby for any unusual symptoms or side effects, such as increased drowsiness or feeding difficulties.
– Consider Timing: If a medication is necessary, timing doses around breastfeeding can help minimize the amount that passes into breast milk. For instance, taking medication right after breastfeeding can reduce exposure for the infant.
Conclusion
While many medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is vital to be cautious and informed about those that should be avoided. By consulting healthcare professionals and being aware of the potential impacts on milk supply and infant health, mothers can make informed decisions that support both their well-being and that of their babies.

What not to do while breastfeeding?

Don’t drink alcohol when you’re breastfeeding. Alcohol includes beer, wine, wine coolers and liquor. If you do drink alcohol, don’t have more than two drinks a week. Wait at least 2 hours after each drink before you breastfeed.

What medications dry up milk supply?

What medications do you think have been found to decrease milk supply? Choose 1 or more:

• Epinephrine.
• Labetolol.
• High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol)
• Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Testosterone.
• Estrogen.
• Methylergonovine (Methergine)
• Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)

What are unsafe drugs in breastfeeding?

ANSWER: Only a few drugs pose a clinically significant risk to breastfed babies. In general, antineoplastics, drugs of abuse, some anticonvulsants, ergot alkaloids, and radiopharmaceuticals should not be taken, and levels of amiodarone, cyclosporine, and lithium should be monitored.

What to drink to increase breast milk?

Drinks to increase nutrients in breast milk

• Water. Plain water tops the list because not getting enough of it can directly reduce your milk supply.
• Cow’s milk. Cow’s milk is on the list because of its nutrient density.
• Herbal tea with fenugreek.
• Fruit smoothie with chia seeds.
• Coconut water.
• Juice.

What drugs are passed through breast milk?

Most drug molecules, including alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, are small enough to enter milk. Exceptions are drugs with high molecular weights such as heparins and insulin.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Is there anything to avoid while breastfeeding?

Avoiding certain foods, such as garlic, onions or cabbage, might help. Remember, there’s no need to go on a special diet while you’re breastfeeding. Simply focus on making healthy choices — and you and your baby will reap the rewards.

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What drugs can be passed through breast milk?

Most drug molecules, including alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, are small enough to enter milk. Exceptions are drugs with high molecular weights such as heparins and insulin.